Tuberc Respir Dis.  2016 Jul;79(3):127-133. 10.4046/trd.2016.79.3.127.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Latent Tuberculosis Infection in Healthcare Workers

• Mok JH

• KMID: 2326680
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4046/trd.2016.79.3.127

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the most important occupational risks for healthcare workers (HCWs) in South Korea. Many policies regarding the control and prevention of TB in healthcare settings recommend that HCWs are tested for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) in addition to active TB. Moreover, the Korean Tuberculosis Prevention Act also recommends that HCWs receive regular testing for LTBI. However, there are no specific or detailed guidelines for dealing with LTBI in HCWs. Herein, we discuss the diagnosis and treatment of LTBI in HCWs and focus particularly on the baseline screening of hired HCWs, routine follow-up, and contact investigation.

Keyword

Healthcare Provider; Interferon-gamma Release Assay; Latent Tuberculosis Infection; Tuberculin Test

MeSH Terms

Delivery of Health Care*
Diagnosis*
Follow-Up Studies
Health Personnel
Humans
Interferon-gamma Release Tests
Korea
Latent Tuberculosis*
Mass Screening
Tuberculin Test
Tuberculosis

Figure

• 

  Figure 1 Flowchart of baseline and follow-up testing for latent tuberculosis infections in healthcare workers. *Routine follow-up latent tuberculosis infection screening for medium risk departments may be considered if resources are sufficient. †Use of the IGRA for serial testing is complicated by a lack of optimum cut-off data for serial testing. Caution is urged when using the IGRA as a follow-up test. HCWs: healthcare workers; Sx: symptom; CXR: chest radiograph; TST: Mantoux tuberculin skin test; IGRA: interferon-gamma release assay; TB: tuberculosis; LTBI: latent tuberculosis infection; Hx: history.

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